About other road users

Sharing the road with trucks and buses

Following trucks and buses

• Drivers of buses and trucks often have large blind spots behind and at the side of their vehicle, so it is a good idea to position your vehicle far enough back so it can be seen in their side mirrors. This will let the truck or bus driver know you are there.
• Remember the two-second rule; following too closely will limit your visibility, give you less time to stop and may put you in the truck or bus driver's blind spots.
• In wet weather, increase your following distance to four seconds. This will keep you away from any water spraying from the wheels of the bus or truck that could reduce your visibility, and will also give you more time to stop.

Overtaking trucks and buses

Because it takes several seconds longer to pass a truck or bus than it does to pass a car, it's important to make sure you have plenty of clear road ahead to safely pass without going over the speed limit. See Passing for more information.

Oncoming trucks and buses

When riding past an oncoming truck or bus (one travelling in the opposite direction), you should remain relaxed and ready to respond by leaning. If the wind is pushing you, lean towards it. If it is a vacuum sucking you towards the vehicle, lean away from it. Do this smoothly so that the motorcycle stays in a straight path. Remember, don't tense up, trust your motorcycle.

Remember, trucks and other large vehicles take up more room on the road when travelling around bends and at intersections, and may not always stay entirely in their own lane.

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Last updated: 8 October 2009